Historic river tours on authentic batteau boats with scenic views and local charm.
James River Batteau Company offers immersive two-hour tours on the James River aboard authentic batteau boats, blending history, relaxation, and local culture. Based in Scottsville, VA, the tours feature informative commentary on river history, a charcuterie board, and optional live music, with intimate settings for up to six guests. Reviews highlight knowledgeable and friendly guides, scenic sunset views, and a unique experience perfect for celebrations or out-of-town visitors.
249 Main St, Scottsville, VA 24590, USA
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Two-hour guided tour on a hand-built batteau boat, featuring stories of 1800s river transport and local history.
Gourmet charcuterie board included with each cruise, complemented by scenic sunset views on the James River.
Live guitar performances with carefully selected tunes during the cruise for a relaxing ambiance.
Intimate setting for up to 6 guests, ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or hosting out-of-town visitors.
Opportunities to try traditional boat 'pushing' and engage with hands-on historical elements.
Overall rating
Dawn Ladd
We found James River Batteau Co on a Google search for things to do around Richmond. They did not disappoint! This was such an interesting and informative river cruise. The stop along the way, with charcuterie board and wine (we provided the wine) was perfect as the sun set on the James River was perfect! We highly recommend this tour.
Natalie Merron
Wonderful experience! The team of Will & Will that started this up have created something really special here! We cannot recommend booking a Batteau tour with them enough!
Vera Hailey
The Wills made our batteau experience (group of 6 celebrating a birthday) one to remember! We highly recommend this tour, which included a nicely done charcuterie board (we brought extra food to complement for a complete lunch) and thoughtful touches like rustic seat cushions. They thought of everything, with the best parts being the stories, historical tidbits and the guitar serenade with carefully selected tunes. Great activity for out of town guests!
Dawn Warren
Wonderful experience. The gentleman in charge are awesome, knowledgeable, and super friendly. The boat holds 6 people, so it is an intimate setting. They tell you the history of the boat while you go down the James River. A charcuterie board for two was included. One of the best I've had so far. I was prepared to be sitting in the hot sun, however there was an umbrella above the table which was great considering how hot it was. I even got to try "pushing " the boat. Sorry don't remember the name of it but it was a great new experience. I highly recommend this two hour tour.
Janet Mcelhanon
2 hr sunset cruise on the James River. Batteau boats were the main source of moving goods, primarily tobacco from the fields of Virginia to Richmond in the early 1800's. History of the river, live music, a charcuterie board included in the tour. The two owners Will and Will started the company 4 years ago. They built the boats, conduct the tour, provide the music and prepare the food. They are preserving this forgotten history of the James River. Highly recommend.
